Bequest Language

Specific bequests are those in which a donor bequeaths a specific dollar amount or specific asset(s). Sample language: I give, devise, and bequeath $_____ (or, the following asset) to Newseum, Inc., located in Washington, D.C., (EIN 20-3985447) for its general purposes.

Percentage bequests are those in which a donor bequeaths a percentage of the estate. Sample language: I give, devise, and bequeath to Newseum, Inc., located in Washington, D.C., (EIN 20-3985447), for the Newseum’s general purposes an amount equal to ______ percent (__%) of my adjusted gross estate as finally determined for federal estate tax purposes.

Residuary bequests are those in which a donor bequeaths all or a percentage of the remainder of the estate after other gifts, debts, taxes and expenses. Sample language: I give, devise, and bequeath all (or a percentage) of the rest, residue and remainder of my estate, both real and personal and wheresoever situate, to Newseum, Inc., located in Washington, D.C., (EIN 20-3985447), for its general purposes.

Contingent bequests are received by the Newseum only if a donor’s primary beneficiaries are not surviving at the time of the donor’s death. Sample language: If (primary beneficiary) does not survive me, I give, devise, and bequeath such beneficiary’s share of my estate (or trust) to Newseum, Inc., located in Washington, D.C., (EIN 20-3985447), for its general purposes.

Restricted bequests are those in which a donor bequeaths a gift to be used for a specific purpose. Sample language: I give, devise, and bequeath to Newseum, Inc., located in Washington, D.C., (EIN20-3985447), (the sum of $______) (the following asset) (___ percent of my adjusted gross estate) or (the rest, residue, and remainder of my estate). This gift shall be used for (state purpose) if and for so long as the Newseum determines that the need exists. If the Newseum shall determine at the outset or at a later time that the need does not exist, or no longer exists, or for some reason it is not possible (or prudent) for the bequest to be used as originally intended, the Newseum may, in its sole and uncontrolled discretion, direct the use of my bequest for a purpose related as closely as possible to that stated above.

Restrictions
It is strongly advised that the donor and/or the donor’s adviser(s) discuss restrictions with the development department of the Newseum before the will or trust is finalized to assure that the donor’s wishes can be carried out.